If you’re searching for quick recipes that save time but don’t compromise on flavor, you’ve just found your new favorite: Quick Garlic Butter Shrimp. With only a handful of ingredients and less than 20 minutes from start to finish, this dish is the ultimate answer to weeknight dinner struggles.
Succulent shrimp seared in a garlicky butter sauce with hints of lemon and fresh herbs will have your family asking for seconds. Whether served over pasta, rice, or with crusty bread, this recipe is a must-have in your collection of quick recipes.
In this detailed guide, we’ll cover everything: ingredients, step-by-step instructions, pro cooking tips, serving suggestions, nutritional values, and even how to meal-prep shrimp for busy nights.
Why Quick Garlic Butter Shrimp Belongs in Your Quick Recipes Collection
There’s a reason shrimp is the star of so many quick recipes. It cooks in minutes, pairs beautifully with countless flavors, and is high in protein yet low in calories. Adding garlic and butter turns this humble seafood into a restaurant-quality dish that requires almost no effort.
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Fast: Ready in under 15 minutes.
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Simple ingredients: Nothing fancy or hard to find.
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Flexible: Pairs with pasta, rice, or veggies.
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Crowd-pleaser: Loved by kids and adults alike.
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Healthy option: High-protein, nutrient-rich, and naturally gluten-free.
Ingredients for Quick Garlic Butter Shrimp
Here’s everything you need to make this irresistible dish:
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1 lb (450 g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined
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3 tbsp unsalted butter
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2 tbsp olive oil
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5 cloves garlic, finely minced
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1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
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1 tbsp lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
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1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
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Salt and black pepper, to taste
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Lemon wedges, for serving
Kitchen Tools You’ll Need
Making Quick Garlic Butter Shrimp requires minimal equipment:
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Large skillet (non-stick or cast iron works best)
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Mixing bowl
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Measuring spoons
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Sharp knife and cutting board
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Tongs or spatula
Step-by-Step Instructions
1: Prepare the Shrimp
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Rinse shrimp under cold water and pat dry with paper towels.
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Season lightly with salt and pepper.
2: Heat the Pan
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Place a skillet over medium-high heat.
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Add olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter. Let the butter melt and foam slightly.
3: Sauté the Garlic
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Add minced garlic and red pepper flakes to the pan.
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Sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant (avoid burning).
4: Cook the Shrimp
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Add shrimp to the skillet in a single layer.
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Cook 1–2 minutes per side until pink and opaque.
5: Finish the Sauce
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Add remaining butter and lemon juice to the pan.
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Toss shrimp in the buttery sauce until evenly coated.
6: Garnish and Serve
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Sprinkle with fresh parsley.
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Serve immediately with lemon wedges.
Pro Tips for the Best Quick Garlic Butter Shrimp
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Don’t overcook shrimp – Shrimp cooks very quickly; once it turns pink and curls slightly, it’s done.
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Use fresh garlic – Freshly minced garlic gives a richer, more aromatic flavor.
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Butter + olive oil – This combo prevents butter from burning while still keeping the rich flavor.
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Pat shrimp dry – This ensures a nice sear instead of steaming.
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Serve immediately – Shrimp tastes best fresh out of the pan.
Serving Suggestions
This versatile dish can be enjoyed in countless ways:
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Over pasta – Toss with linguine or spaghetti for a restaurant-style shrimp scampi.
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With rice – Serve over fluffy jasmine or basmati rice for a hearty meal.
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On salad – Add shrimp to a fresh green salad for a light, protein-packed lunch.
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With bread – Use crusty bread to soak up the garlicky butter sauce.
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As tacos – Wrap in tortillas with avocado and slaw for shrimp tacos.
Variations of Quick Garlic Butter Shrimp
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Spicy Cajun Style – Add Cajun seasoning and extra chili flakes.
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Creamy Garlic Shrimp – Stir in 1/4 cup heavy cream at the end for a luscious sauce.
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Asian Twist – Add soy sauce, sesame oil, and ginger.
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Herb Infused – Experiment with fresh basil, thyme, or dill.
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Lemon Garlic Zest – Add extra lemon zest for a bright, citrusy flavor.
Nutritional Value (per serving, about 4 servings total)
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Calories: 230
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Protein: 24 g
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Carbohydrates: 2 g
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Fat: 14 g
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Fiber: 0 g
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Sugar: 0 g
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Vitamin C: 12% DV
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Iron: 10% DV
Note: Values vary depending on shrimp size and exact ingredient quantities.
Why This Dish is a Star in Quick Recipes SEO
From a content standpoint, this recipe ticks all the boxes for the keyword “quick recipes”:
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It’s fast to prepare.
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It uses minimal ingredients.
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It’s versatile for different diets.
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It appeals to busy families, students, and professionals.
Adding this recipe to your site or blog boosts your authority in the quick recipes niche.
FAQs About Quick Garlic Butter Shrimp
Q: Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes! Just thaw shrimp in cold water before cooking.
Q: How do I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a skillet.
Q: Can I meal-prep shrimp?
Yes. Marinate shrimp ahead of time and cook just before serving.
Q: What if I don’t eat butter?
You can substitute ghee or coconut oil for a dairy-free option.
Conclusion
If you’re tired of overcomplicated dinners and want something fast, delicious, and versatile, Quick Garlic Butter Shrimp is your solution. It’s one of the best quick recipes you’ll ever try—ready in under 15 minutes, packed with flavor, and perfect for any occasion.
So next time you’re wondering what to cook, skip the takeout and whip up this shrimp dish. Your taste buds (and your schedule) will thank you!
